Freedom of Expression Tracker

Journalists sustain injuries after assault by police

Incident Ref:

ZW2909/17-7158

Incident category:

assaulted

Date of incident:

29 September 2017

Perpetrator / Facilitator:

Police

MISA Stance:

MISA Zimbabwe position

The assault of the journalists is of grave concern as it comes after the brutal assault in July this year, among other worrying cases, of AMH journalists, Obey Manayiti, Shepherd Tozvireva, Abigail Matsikidze and driver Raphael Phiri.

These wanton assaults cannot be allowed to continue with impunity as they tarnish the image of the police and ruin the mutual working relationship that should exist between the media and the police.

This is a matter that deserves the serious attention of the Minister of Home Affairs Dr Ignatius Chombo and Police Commissioner General Augustine Chihuri.

We implore the police and other state security agents to ensure the safety and security of journalists conducting their lawful professional duties. On the other hand, journalists covering potentially volatile situations, should always be mindful of the profession’s safety and security measures before embarking on such assignments.